In a proud moment that highlights tradition, service, and national pride, the Navad family from Bengaluru has earned a rare distinction — having one member each in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This milestone was formally marked at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, where Anmol Navad, the youngest in the family, was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Indian Army. With this, the Navads now stand as one of the few families in India with representation across all three branches of the armed forces.
A Family Rooted in Service
The head of the family, Air Commodore Vasant Navad, currently serves in the Indian Air Force and is posted at the Integrated Defence Staff in New Delhi. His elder son, Aryan Navad, serves as a naval aviator in the Indian Navy. With Anmol’s recent induction into the Army, the family has achieved a complete trifecta — a living symbol of India’s tri-service strength and unity.
Speaking about this remarkable feat, Air Commodore Navad emphasized the growing relevance of synergy among the three services, particularly in the era of integrated operations. He noted that modern warfare requires seamless coordination across domains — land, sea, air, space, and cyber — and the family’s presence across all branches reflects this evolving strategic vision.
Anmol’s Journey to the Army
For Lieutenant Anmol Navad, the choice to serve in the Army was deeply personal and inspired by the examples set by his father and brother. He described his father as his inspiration and his brother as a constant source of strength and guidance. Their influence shaped his desire to serve the nation in a unique and challenging way.
Anmol, who will be joining the Infantry Regiment, is also an avid runner and squash enthusiast. He credits long-distance running for helping him push his limits, and remembers the grueling Bhadraj trek during his training at IMA as a defining moment in building resilience and mental toughness.
A Tradition That Runs Deep
The legacy of service in the Navad family goes beyond the present generation. Anmol’s maternal grandfather was an officer in the Territorial Army and a recipient of the President’s Medal, adding another layer to their rich tradition of military service.
Reflecting India’s Defence Structure
The Indian Armed Forces are divided into three main branches — the Army, Navy, and Air Force — each with a distinct role in protecting the nation’s sovereignty. The Army secures the land borders, the Navy protects maritime interests, and the Air Force defends the skies. The Navads’ presence in all three services serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of jointness and inter-service cooperation in today’s security landscape.
A Story of National Inspiration
The Navad family’s rare accomplishment is more than just a personal achievement — it is a national inspiration. It showcases the values of discipline, unity, and unwavering commitment to the country. Their story is a beacon for aspiring youth and families across India, proving that with dedication and courage, one can serve the nation in diverse and meaningful ways.
As India adapts to new security challenges and strives for integrated military capabilities, the example set by the Navads offers a glimpse into the future — one where service, sacrifice, and inter-service synergy are more important than ever.
